Rotary to host stellar gala at Cradle of Aviation

 One of the summer’s most anticipated events, the Northport Rotary’s night of non-stop food, drink and entertainment, takes place on Thursday, August 8.  The Rotary’s biggest fundraiser of the year, which typically attracts hundreds of Long Islanders, will be held at a venue which will put stars in guests’ eyes: the Cradle of Aviation.

The event’s name –“The Wind Beneath Our Wings”-- speaks to both the spirit of the  gala, which will benefit more than 25  causes and the venue.

According to Curator Joshua Stoff, the museum is called the Cradle of Aviation because Long Island has always been at the forefront of developments in aviation and space exploration. The pioneering aviator, Charles Lindbergh, made his historic 1927 solo flight across the Atlantic Ocean to Paris from Roosevelt Field. During the course of the event, guests will freely to explore eight galleries which trace the remarkable history of aviation on Long Island, and see authentic aircraft and spacecraft. Hands-on exhibits and short films punctuate the educational experience.

Rotarian and Event Chairman John Poulos said that guests will enjoy fabulous food, entertainment, and an open bar. A lavish, international buffet  prepared by Philip Stone Caterers will be there for guests’ dining pleasure throughout the evening. Grand finales include gourmet desserts and coffees.

 “There will be live entertainment throughout the venue, all evening long, including dancing to the 9 piece orchestra, “Midnight Blue,” in the grand lobby. As you make your way through the museum exhibits, there will be food stations arranged like intimate cafes,” said Entertainment Chair Ann Stevens. Guests will  enjoy  soulful blues and soft rock numbers performed by Teri George and the Connection, as well as the contemporary sounds of Felicia Crandall of “Distant Twins.”

Raffle prizes include themed baskets, each valued at about $500 as well as silent auction prizes. According to past president Andy Giffin, for those interested in family-oriented fun, there are  winter or autumn getaways to the lovely Vermont vacation home generously offered by Rotarians Anita and Bill Thomas. The lucky winners will receive gift certificates to local restaurants and more. 

“It’s a winter wonderland during skiing season,” said Anita, adding that the home is near Stratton Mountain Ski Resort, Magic Mountain and two other major ski resorts.

Autumn is a superlative time to vacation at the home as “the fall foliage is magnificent,” Anita remarked, indicating that whomever wins will be  “in walking distance to the town which is a precious New England Village with an original country store.”

Charities, non-profit organizations and causes that will benefit from the proceeds include the Northport Veterans Administration, Visiting Nurse Service & Hospice of Suffolk, the Ecumenical Lay Food Pantry, the Northport Fire Department, Soles4Souls, Rotary International Polio Plus and the Gift of Life program.

 The event runs from 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm at the Cradle of Aviation, located at Reckson Center at the Museums at Mitchel, 1 Davis Avenue, Garden City. Tickets are $100 per person, and can be purchased by calling (631) 930-9310 or online at www.Northportrotary.com.  Guests can also register online for roundtrip bus transportation for $15. Inquiries about sponsorship opportunities should be directed to the above phone number.